2024 Summer Travel Tipping Guide

The excitement around summer travel plans is almost palpable. You can almost smell the first squeeze of your favorite suntan lotion, and hear the wheels of your suitcase hitting the ground. Whether you’ll be lounging at the beach, or enjoying the amenities at your favorite mountain resort, gratuity will be a part of your travel experience.

Before leaving home, create a budget which includes gratuity. When traveling, there are many situations where a tip will be expected, and others where you can forgo the tip. We’re sharing a quick travel tipping refresher just in time for the summer. Since tipping varies from country to country, it’s always best to do your homework in advance. The information below is focused on standard US tipping customs.

2024 Summer Travel Tipping Guide

Carry small bills to be ready to leave $1, $2, $3 or $5’s when appropriate

Curb service at the airport: $1 to $2 per bag

Bell persons at hotel: $1 to $2 per bag with multiple suitcases, $5 is not unheard of as a tip

Housekeeper: $3 to $5 per day – not at the end of the stay

Taxi/Rideshare: 15 to 20%

Shuttle drivers: $1 to $2

Valet at hotel: $2 to $5

Concierge: $5 to $20 depending on how much work was involved

Bartenders: 20% of entire tab or $1 for each beer, to $2 per cocktail

Restaurant servers: 15 to 20%

Spa services: 15 to 20%

Flight attendants: Most airlines discourage offering the flight attendant a gratuity. Flight attendant is a professional who has an important role in airline travel. Safety of the passenger is there a top priority. A better option would be to write a positive review, sign up for a credit card which reflects favorably on the flight attendant, offer a pre-purchased gift card to a universally used retail store if you have the inclination to gift your flight attendant for an exceptional experience.

Do I tip for curbside airport check-in?

Yes. There are many reasons curbside is convenient, the most important is that it can save time from the long lines in the terminal. Travelers can bypass the kiosks and have a real person check you in, take your luggage and give you a boarding pass if you prefer carrying a paper pass rather than using your phone. Those with large families, or those with mobility challenges often find this option more pleasant.

Not all airlines have curbside available, and some are only open during certain times. Have your ID and flight information ready to speed up the process. The attendants will take your bag or bags and give you a claim ticket.

Offer $1 to $2 per bag and a friendly smile to complete the convenient transaction.

You may also like Summer Travel Etiquette FAQs. 

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